New ABB transformers will help support sustainable mobility in Austria

ABB will provide 42 Effilight® roof-mounted traction transformers for Bombardier’s TALENT 3 electric multiple unit (EMU) platform.

The order is part of a frame contract to deliver up to 600 traction units for 300 trains by the end of 2024. The transformers (which feed power at safe voltages to essential train functions like traction, brakes, lighting, heating and ventilation, as well as passenger information, signaling and communication) will be installed on 21 trains that will operate between rural and urban areas in Austria’s Vorarlberg region.

Effilight is ABB’s next-generation traction transformer, which uses a patented high-technology cell design that can reduce the amount of oil required by up to 70% without compromising functionality. This saving in oil volume compensates for the additional copper introduced to reduce losses and improve energy efficiency. To meet higher energy efficiency needs, ABB has optimised the design for a load loss reduction of 25% compared with a classic transformer of the same weight.

“Bombardier and ABB have an excellent track record of cooperation, and this latest success reaffirms our position as a supplier of choice and reliable long-term technology partner,” said Claudio Facchin, President of ABB Power Grids. “Effilight is an innovative technology that supports our strategy to develop solutions to support sustainable mobility for millions of commuters and we are pleased to implement our first commercial installation on the Austrian rail network.”

The trains will also connect with neighbouring countries to provide additional passenger capacity and reduce road traffic. On average, every Austrian citizen travels about 1,425km by train each year, the third highest in the world, and the country has a vision to transport 500 million passengers a year and 150 million tons of freight by 2020, across nearly 5,000km of track. The planned addition to the rail network will support the realisation of this vision.